At least 64 Dead in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Security Action on Criminal Groups
A minimum of 64 people died in a security raid targeting the organized crime group in Rio de Janeiro's northern suburbs - the largest and deadliest raid in the Brazilian state's history.
Four police officers were among those killed during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, local authorities stated. Over 80 people were taken into custody.
Intense confrontations commenced when around 2,500 security personnel entered the area on Tuesday morning. The Comando Vermelho responded with armed resistance, burning barricades and using drone-dropped explosives, officials confirmed.
The UN Human Rights Office said it was "horrified" by the security action, urging "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Operation Impact
The area of favelas close to the city's international airport is considered to be the headquarters of one of Brazil's most powerful criminal organizations.
Local authorities stated no less than 50 of those killed were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals".
Dozens of people were wounded, including non-combatants affected by the violence.
Community Response
Community members have likened the hillside area - inhabited by approximately 300,000 people - to a "combat area" since the raid started.
Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood.
Criminal Expansion
The Red Command group have been expanding their influence in the area, increasing drug trafficking routes and control of the hillside favelas.
Security forces said more than 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the raid, along with multiple guns.
Mission Context
The combined action by various security forces was preceded by a twelve-month inquiry.
Many of the individuals are believed to be affiliates of a group from the northern region who are at the moment taking refuge in Rio de Janeiro.
Broader Context
Major law enforcement actions are not uncommon in the South American nation before important worldwide conferences in the South American nation.
The UN climate summit the climate conference is scheduled in the city of Belem in the north in the eleventh month.
